What to Know:
– Google’s John Mueller recently answered a question about the “impact” of the ARTICLE semantic HTML element.
– The ARTICLE element is used to mark up self-contained content that can be independently distributed or syndicated.
– Mueller clarified that the ARTICLE element itself does not have a direct impact on search rankings.
– However, using the ARTICLE element can help search engines understand the structure and context of the content.
– It is important to use the ARTICLE element correctly and in a way that aligns with the purpose of the content.
The Full Story:
Google’s John Mueller recently addressed a question about the “impact” of the ARTICLE semantic HTML element. The ARTICLE element is used to mark up self-contained content that can be independently distributed or syndicated. It helps search engines understand the structure and context of the content.
Mueller clarified that the ARTICLE element itself does not have a direct impact on search rankings. It is not a ranking factor that Google’s algorithms use to determine the relevance or quality of a page. However, using the ARTICLE element correctly can still be beneficial for search engine optimization.
The purpose of the ARTICLE element is to provide a clear structure and context for the content. It helps search engines understand that the marked-up content is a self-contained piece that can be independently distributed or syndicated. This can be particularly useful for news articles, blog posts, and other types of content that are meant to be consumed on their own.
By using the ARTICLE element, webmasters can help search engines better understand the purpose and structure of their content. This can potentially lead to better indexing and visibility in search results. However, it is important to note that the impact of using the ARTICLE element is indirect and depends on various other factors that contribute to search rankings.
Mueller also emphasized the importance of using the ARTICLE element correctly. It should be used for content that is self-contained and can stand on its own. It should not be used for content that is just a part of a larger page or website. Using the ARTICLE element incorrectly can confuse search engines and potentially have a negative impact on search rankings.
In addition to the ARTICLE element, there are other semantic HTML elements that can be used to provide structure and context to content. These include elements like HEADER, NAV, SECTION, and ASIDE. Each of these elements serves a specific purpose and can help search engines understand the organization and hierarchy of the content.
Overall, while the ARTICLE element itself does not have a direct impact on search rankings, using it correctly can help search engines understand the structure and context of the content. This can potentially lead to better indexing and visibility in search results. Webmasters should ensure they are using the ARTICLE element appropriately and in a way that aligns with the purpose of the content.
In conclusion, the ARTICLE semantic HTML element is a useful tool for providing structure and context to self-contained content. While it does not directly impact search rankings, using it correctly can help search engines understand the purpose and organization of the content. Webmasters should make sure to use the ARTICLE element appropriately and in a way that aligns with the content’s intended purpose.
Original article: https://www.searchenginejournal.com/seo-and-article-semantic-html-element/494237/